St Gregory's Dance Academy

Introducing St Gregory’s Dance Academy

St Gregory’s School is proud to announce the launch of its brand new Dance Academy – a unique and exciting opportunity for passionate young dancers to develop their skills and creativity alongside a first-class education.

In partnership with Sam Blackden from Cascade Dance and Royal Ballet Soloist Mica Bradbury, the Dance Academy will offer expert tuition, a broad exploration of dance genres, and an exclusive insight into the professional world of ballet and performance.

What St Gregory’s Dance Academy offers

As part of the St Gregory’s Dance Academy, students will receive specialist dance instruction across genres from classical ballet to contemporary and jazz. They will also have the opportunity to attend exclusive Ballet Workshops led by Mica Bradbury, and hosted at London’s Royal Ballet and Opera House Studios; providing students with a rare chance to train where professional artists rehearse daily.

Students in our Dance Academy will gain insight into the broader dance industry, including:
• Meeting professional choreographers, ballet teachers and physiotherapists;
• Engaging with rehabilitation experts, S&C coaches, make-up artists and costume designers;
• Understanding the crucial roles of the lighting and stage crew, logistics team and other backstage professionals who bring performances to life.

The Dance Academy also provides opportunities to watch live Royal Ballet performances at The Royal Opera House, followed by exclusive backstage tours.

Our Dedicated Dance Specialists

The St Gregory’s Dance Academy will be led by our specialist dance teacher, Sam Blackden from Cascade Dance, and will be supported by Mica Bradbury, an esteemed Soloist of The Royal Ballet.

Cascade Dance is a dynamic educational dance company, and Sam Blackden provides the Dance Academy with her vast experience in contemporary techniques and her passion for choreography.

Mica Bradbury also brings a wealth of experience to the Dance Academy. Known for her exceptional grace, strength and versatility, Mica trained at The Royal Ballet School and has performed in numerous productions at The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London. Originally from Tunbridge Wells, her success is an inspiration to students and offers real-world insight into the life of a professional dancer. Passionate about mentoring young dancers and sharing her expertise, Mica brings an extraordinary dimension to the Academy.

Entry to the Dance Academy

The St Gregory’s Dance Academy is open to students by audition only. Successful students will be timetabled for Dance Academy sessions during lesson time, forming an integral part of their school week.

Those who are not successful in securing a place in the Dance Academy will still have access to:
• A wide range of after school extra-curricular dance opportunities.
• The chance to participate in workshops and performance trips held at The Royal Ballet and Royal Opera House, ensuring every dancer at St Gregory’s can be involved and inspired.

The introduction of a Dance Academy at St Gregory’s School’s aligns with our school mission to nurture talent and ambition. We are proudly working towards the Artsmark Award, reflecting our commitment to developing Performing Arts – not only in Dance, but in Drama and Music too.